8 Incredible Beaches (Slideshow)

In a country known for its gorgeous beaches, Myrtos rises above the pack. Indeed, it is often considered the nation’s best beach. Why, exactly? Well, the 1.5 mile-long white pebble beach nestled into dramatic cliffs sure doesn’t hurt. It’s also a great place for swimmers — water sports aren’t allowed. Another perk? Permanent structures aren’t allowed on the beach, so it’s all about the natural beauty.

You omitted our local beach, Iztuzu at Dalyan in SW Turkey. A 5km long spit of fine sand, where the endangered loggerhead turtles (Caretta Caretta) nest. The beach separates the Dalyan River delta and reed beds from the Mediterranean Sea and from May to October the beach is guarded at night to protect the turtles. A very beautiful sweep of sand, development is prohibited, and you access the beach by either a mountainous road, or by boat along the river channel. Iztuzu was voted top beach by The Times newspaper in 2008, and we love it and cherish it!